2011 Dodge Durango revealed

The redesigned 2011 Dodge Durango, set to hit showrooms this fall, shares a platform with the redesigned Jeep Grand Cherokee, has three rows of seats and offers a choice of two engines.

The Durango gets a stiffened unibody structure designed with the enthusiast in mind. Dodge says it will deliver SUV capability with crossover versatility.

Buyers can choose either Chrysler’s 3.6-liter Pentastar V6 engine or the 5.7-liter Hemi V8. The V6 makes 290 hp and 260 lb-ft of torque in the Grand Cherokee; we expect similar numbers for this truck.

Fuel efficiency was a focus of the team that engineered the Durango. Dodge says the SUV should be able to go 500 miles, or the distance from Detroit to New York, on one tank of fuel.

Towing won’t be a problem either. The V6 Durango can tow a best-in-class 6,200 pounds when properly equipped, Dodge says, while the V8 will pull even more.

The interior was redesigned in the same style as the Grand Cherokee and Ram trucks. Expect a functional interior with soft-touch materials in all three rows, regardless of trim level.

The interior should be flexible as well. Dodge says there are 22 seating configurations for combinations of people and gear.

Electronic stability control will be standard. Other safety features will include available blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-path detection, forward collision warning, adaptive cruise control and keyless ignition.

By Jake Lingeman